We've discussed some of the themes of this book, such as the social expectations that Brent feels, and how his efforts to gain peer acceptance failed. As a result, he often felt isolated. When he lashed out self-destructively, his actions had unintended consequences; he killed Lea. He takes her mother up on the suggestion that he travel across the U.S., building whirligigs to memorialize her daughter, Lea. As he goes on this journey, he experiences redemption.
Students also learned the word, motif. Throughout the book, the author uses motifs, or repeating patterns, to create a sense of unity throughout Brent's journey.
Whirligig
by Paul FleishmanWe've discussed some of the themes of this book, such as the social expectations that Brent feels, and how his efforts to gain peer acceptance failed. As a result, he often felt isolated. When he lashed out self-destructively, his actions had unintended consequences; he killed Lea. He takes her mother up on the suggestion that he travel across the U.S., building whirligigs to memorialize her daughter, Lea. As he goes on this journey, he experiences redemption.
Students also learned the word, motif. Throughout the book, the author uses motifs, or repeating patterns, to create a sense of unity throughout Brent's journey.
Some of these motifs are: